Are Japanese straightening treatments a good idea?

-I have very unmanageable hair which I flat iron almost every day. However, I'm getting sick of doing this- I can hear my hair popping and breaking and it takes so long! I'm always afraid of working out or getting my hair damp. I think I would like a Japanese straight perm/ thermal reconditioning. But I have a few questions...

1. How much does the average treatment cost and how long will it take?

2. After the treatment, what are the "rules" about how I have to treat my hair?

3. How long do the results last? What makes them last longer?

4. Can you touch up your hair, e.g, flat iron any regrowth? Is regrowth very noticeable?

5. How often do you have to go to get touch ups and how much do they cost?

6. Will you need a whole new treatment over time?

7. Is there anything you have to do before the treatment (eg, no straightening for a week)?

And most importantly....

8. Would you say getting this perm is worth it? If you have had one do you regret it? Would you do it again?

Personal experience is appreciated!

Thank you!